INS PUBLISHES NEW REQUIREMENTS FOR APPLICANT FINGERPRINTING

The Immigration and Naturalization Service ("INS") has announced new rules that require aliens to use INS-certified businesses, organizations and agencies for the issuing of fingerprints. The INS requires applicants for many types of benefits (including permanent residency) to have their fingerprints taken on the standard FBI fingerprint card. Under the current system, there are no restrictions on where an applicant can go to get the fingerprints. Applicants typically get fingerprinted at local police departments, photographers who specialize in immigration, physicians who conduct the required medical exam as well as other places.

The INS has expressed its concern about potential fraud in this area and the final rule now establishes a certification process for those who wish to handle fingerprinting ("Designated Fingerprinting Services"). The rule spells out eligibility criteria, certification requirements, application procedures, and a date on which the Service will stop accepting fingerprint cards prepared by unauthorized organizations.

The rule goes into effect in phases. Entities desiring to continue providing fingerprint services must file an application to become a Designated Fingerprinting Service no later than November 1, 1996. After December 31, 1996, the INS will no loger accept fingerprints taken by entities who have not filed an application for Designated Fingerprint Services certification and been approved by the INS.